For readers of The Paris Wife and Z comes this vivid novel full of drama, passion, tragedy, and beauty that stunningly imagines the life of iconic fashion designer Coco Chanel—the ambitious, gifted laundrywoman’s daughter who revolutionized fashion, built an international empire, and become one of the most influential and controversial figures of the twentieth century.Born into rural poverty, … century.
Born into rural poverty, Gabrielle Chanel and her siblings are sent to orphanage after their mother’s death. The sisters nurture Gabrielle’s exceptional sewing skills, a talent that will propel the willful young woman into a life far removed from the drudgery of her childhood.
Transforming herself into Coco—a seamstress and sometime torch singer—the petite brunette burns with ambition, an incandescence that draws a wealthy gentleman who will become the love of her life. She immerses herself in his world of money and luxury, discovering a freedom that sparks her creativity. But it is only when her lover takes her to Paris that Coco discovers her destiny.
Rejecting the frilly, corseted silhouette of the past, her sleek, minimalist styles reflect the youthful ease and confidence of the 1920s modern woman. As Coco’s reputation spreads, her couturier business explodes, taking her into rarefied society circles and bohemian salons. But her fame and fortune cannot save her from heartbreak as the years pass. And when Paris falls to the Nazis, Coco is forced to make choices that will haunt her.
An enthralling novel of an extraordinary woman who created the life she desired, Mademoiselle Chanel explores the inner world of a woman of staggering ambition whose strength, passion and artistic vision would become her trademark.
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I selected this novel simply to learn a bit about CoCo Chanel the icon. Her determined rise from poverty to world renowned success in fashion was remarkable. The subplot of her involvement in WWII espionage, however, I found fascinating. She was truly a unique and courageous woman in a time when only the privileged were permitted opportunity …
Great biography of an interesting woman.
A surprising view of the life of a much admired innovative fashion designer. Transporting the characters through the histories of two wars, enlightens the reader’s impression of the dangers and hardships that informed those who struggled to survive the rigors of living in a war torn environment.
Great story about Chanel from rags to riches.
I enjoy historical fiction as I don’t have the time or wherewithal to do all the research. Ms. Chanel’s life was certainly an interesting one. Rising from her humble, deplorable childhood, she must have been brilliant and savvy to have achieved what she did in a relatively short period of time. To have survived two world wars – I can’t even …
This biography is written in the first person and reads like you are in Coco’s head! It’s wonderful. Well researched, well told, colorful, honest, exciting and very informative! I’d definitely ready any of his books.
I had trouble putting this book down. It really kept my interest.
While I’m not convinced of it being 100% accurate, the story is excellent and offers a valid view of what Chanel thought and why she acted the way she did. I felt I learned a new perspective on life in France during the world wars – a very different perspective than typical historical fiction. Very interesting look into the life of a fashion …
rags to riches
Loved every bit of it. Of course I’m very much a fan of the little black dress and Chanel No.5. The story was informative and dispels many of the preconceive notions about Chanel. I think it wouldn’t hurt any young female to read this to
know dreams are possible.
Interesting look at the life of Coco Chanel. I didn’t know much about her and enjoyed the book.
Interesting.
I loved this book. It was very interesting to learn Coco Channel’ story. I also enjoyed the setting of France and the various people in her life! Loved learning how Channel No 5 was named!!
A wonderful review of Coco Chanel, a star in my era. Interesting characters and pretty much historically accurate. In fact I see on travel shows some of the places she lived. Definite 5 star book…very well written. Couldn’t put it down.
The author is a very good writer with an exceptional command of the English language. It was well researched and well written. He made me feel like I now know Coco Chanel personally. Since finishing the book, I continue to think of different situations that she encountered.
Even though this is a fictionalized story of Chanel, I found it interesting and am now interested in seeing if I can find a historically accurate biography or her actual autobiography.
Fascinating story. Loved reading it.
A wonderful, informative novel on the life and career of Coco Chanel. A mystery unleashed to those of us who knew little about her..but took her infamous logo for granted!
After reading the true biography of Coco Chanel, I found this ersatz version of her life very hard to stomach. I did not get past 1/3 of the book. For readers who enjoy a melodramatic novelette, this may suit.
You don’t have to be a fashionista to appreciate this amazing historic overview of haute couture as seen through the eyes of one of the world’s most famous and powerful designers, Coco Chanel. This historically accurate novel follows Chanel through her very difficult childhood, through two world wars, to the mid-fifties and the ready-to wear …